"Bad Brushing Habits You Need to Stop"

Posted on 5/15/2018 by Beautiful Smiles Office

Let's face it, nobody really likes to spend two-minutes brushing their teeth twice a day. However, if you want to keep a bright smile and avoid extensive dental procedures, brushing is the best thing you can do. If you are one of those people who has a hard time keeping up with your oral health, here are some of the bad brushing habits you need to stop.

How Long to Brush

The consensus is that you need to brush your teeth for at least two-minutes. Some have recently suggested that three-minutes is necessary, but there is no science behind these claims.

Two-minutes as a rule of thumb allows you to get to the front and back of the teeth as well as the surface in molars. You also need to brush by the cheeks and take care of the front and back of the front teeth. If you divide your mouth in sections, it can go by fast and setting a timer will help.

Replacing Your Toothbrush

One of the biggest mistakes people make is keeping their toothbrush too long. The American Dental Association (ADA) recommends replacing a toothbrush every three to four-months or when the bristles look worn. You can replace your toothbrush each time a new season starts.

Toothpaste or No Toothpaste

If you're wondering whether you need toothpaste to clean your teeth, you're not alone. Despite claims to the contrary, toothpaste is only needed to refresh your breath. If you're concerned you're not getting enough fluoride, you can find a mouthwash that includes it. If you use toothpaste, only a small pea size amount is enough.

Remember to let a good toothbrush do the work. You don't need to use a lot of pressure and those bristles can make your gums bleed. If you use an electric toothbrush, just glide over all the tooth's surface.